Botanical Gardens Dar es Salaam
A historic, somewhat neglected garden showcasing diverse Tanzanian trees and free-roaming peacocks. Offers a quiet escape and educational potential.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the midday heat
Botanical Gardens Dar es Salaam
Best Time
Escape the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic, somewhat neglected garden showcasing diverse Tanzanian trees and free-roaming peacocks. Offers a quiet escape and educational potential.
"Lots of potential here. Don’t let it go to waste."
Negotiate Guide Fees
Be prepared to negotiate guide fees; start low and be firm. A fair price is around 5,000 TZS. :moneywithwings:
Plant ID App Recommended
Download a plant identification app like PictureThis for detailed info on the diverse flora. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Tree Collection
Throughout the gardens
Discover a variety of indigenous and non-indigenous trees like mahogany, royal palm, ebony, and teak. A true botanical treasure trove.
Roaming Peacocks
Garden pathways and open areas
Enjoy the sight of colorful peacocks strutting freely through the gardens, adding a touch of wild beauty.
Abandoned Greenhouse
Central area of the gardens
Explore the remnants of an old greenhouse, sparking imagination about its past and the plants it once housed.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating the Gardens
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Guide Fees
Be prepared to negotiate guide fees; start low and be firm. A fair price is around 5,000 TZS. :moneywithwings:
Plant ID App Recommended
Download a plant identification app like PictureThis for detailed info on the diverse flora. :iphone:
What to do with 12 more days in Tanzania
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The gardens are spread out and can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Peacocks
Keep an eye out for the beautiful peacocks that roam freely throughout the gardens. :feather:
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Guide Fees
Be prepared to negotiate guide fees; start low and be firm. A fair price is around 5,000 TZS. :moneywithwings:
Plant ID App Recommended
Download a plant identification app like PictureThis for detailed info on the diverse flora. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The gardens are spread out and can be uneven. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Look for Peacocks
Keep an eye out for the beautiful peacocks that roam freely throughout the gardens. :feather:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Botanical Gardens a place with potential, appreciating the diverse tree collection and the sight of roaming peacocks. However, many note its neglected state and the common issue of inflated guide fees, which can lead to a less than ideal experience if not navigated carefully. The gardens offer a quiet respite and a chance to learn about local flora, but require visitors to manage expectations regarding upkeep and pricing.
"An amazing food experience in Nairobi, we order different appetizer and food and enjoyed all. Absolutely fresh and yummy. But the drink cocktails and mixes didnt satisfy us and we were expecting a better taste of mix. These is a DJ playing live there as well. Each last friend of month they also have party at end of night. Try to reserve for weekends to ensure we have your table and seats"
Ashkan Danesh
"I love this spot! It’s located in the heart of Dar es Salaam. It has the potential to be come a tourist hot spot. It needs some funding to give it a face lift. Could be used as a recreational and educational center for the community. I learned so much about the trees and plants that are native to Tanz. Lots of potential here. Don’t let it go to waste."
Maggy Frias
"Unfortunately a scam.
The garden is interesting even though there is no information but it looks neglected to some extent. If you download the app PictureThis it will show you in detail what kind of tree it is and give you more information. There are no flowers. Also keep in mind that the trees can be found elsewhere in Dar along the roads, in restaurant gardens etc.
Entrance is free but the employee tried to rip me off by saying that I had to pay 20k shillings, and when I refused she lowered the fee to 10k and eventually 5k. I do think that 5k is a fair price, especially to make the place more lovely (if it doesn’t go in their own pocket, which is still understandable seen the minimum wage). However, because of the scam tactic I was turned off and left."
Hatice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Botanical Gardens are located near the National Museum on Shabban Robert Street in the Kivukoni ward. You can reach them by taxi or local dala-dala (minibus). Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with the nearby National Museum.
Parking can be challenging in the city center. If arriving by private car, be prepared to search for street parking or use a designated lot, though options may be limited. Taxis are a more straightforward option.
Yes, if you are in the central business district, the Botanical Gardens are within walking distance. It's a pleasant stroll, especially in the cooler parts of the day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the official entrance is free, 'guides' often approach visitors and request a fee, which can be inflated. Be prepared to negotiate, with 5,000 TZS being a commonly cited fair price.
The gardens are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, there are no strictly enforced opening or closing times posted, and it's best to visit during reasonable daylight hours.
No, advance booking is not required for the Botanical Gardens. Entry is typically on a walk-in basis, though you may encounter individuals offering guided tours upon arrival.
Refunds are unlikely if you're not satisfied with a guide's service, as these arrangements are often informal. It's best to agree on the price and scope of the tour beforehand.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
The gardens are described as somewhat neglected and in need of a facelift, with limited information signage. However, it still offers a chance to see native Tanzanian trees and plants.
Unofficial guides often approach visitors offering tours. While they can provide information about the trees, be prepared to negotiate their fee and manage expectations about the tour's quality.
You can find a variety of indigenous and non-indigenous trees and shrubs, including mahogany, royal palm, ebony, teak, and ylang-ylang. There are generally no flowers. +1
Yes, the gardens offer opportunities for photography, especially with the diverse trees and roaming peacocks. The abandoned greenhouse can also be an interesting subject.
Information about facilities like restrooms or cafes within the gardens is scarce. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit and bring your own water.
📸 📸 Photography
The diverse collection of trees, the free-roaming peacocks, and the atmospheric abandoned greenhouse offer great photo opportunities. Look for interesting textures and light filtering through the canopy.
Yes, photography is generally permitted within the Botanical Gardens. There are no specific restrictions mentioned for personal photography.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful scenes with the trees and peacocks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To enhance the experience for kids, consider downloading a plant identification app beforehand. This can turn the visit into a fun scavenger hunt to identify different trees. Pack snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Negotiating guide fees is also important to ensure you're not overcharged, especially when managing a family budget.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own water and snacks to save money. The gardens offer a peaceful escape and a chance to see local flora without a significant financial outlay. Combining a visit with the nearby National Museum can also be a cost-effective way to explore Dar es Salaam's attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Nature
The experience is enhanced by the presence of freely roaming peacocks, adding a touch of unexpected wildlife to the serene environment. While information signage is limited, a plant identification app can transform a casual stroll into an educational journey, revealing the names and characteristics of the diverse flora. The abandoned greenhouse also stands as a poignant reminder of the gardens' former glory, inviting visitors to imagine its past.
Despite its current state, the gardens hold potential as a recreational and educational center. Many visitors note its value for learning about native Tanzanian trees and plants, highlighting its importance for community engagement and conservation efforts.
Navigating Visitor Experiences and Fees
To make the most of your visit, it's crucial to be prepared for this aspect. Politeness and firmness in negotiation are key. Many travelers suggest that 5,000 TZS is a fair price for a brief tour, especially considering the gardens' need for funding. It's also important to manage expectations regarding the 'tour' itself, as it may not be as comprehensive as one might expect from a formal botanical garden.
Beyond the fee negotiation, visitors often recommend using a plant identification app to learn about the various trees and plants, as information within the gardens is sparse. The gardens are more of a natural park than a manicured botanical display, so comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the grounds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit